Post Covid Canal Experiences for Elderly in Care

Aim

Following a year of complete lockdown, to give elderly groups in residential care the opportunity for canal and river experiences.

The elderly, and particularly those in residential care, have been the group most affected by the Covid pandemic. They have been unable to have visits from friends and family for months on end, unable to go outside the premises of their care home, and even having to self-isolate for two weeks when they were allowed outside. They have seen friends and fellow residents suffer the dreadful consequences of this debilitating health emergency.

However, this project aims to provide that group with the opportunity to enjoy the canal and river environment on our community barge during the summer of 2021. Our barge has lifts front and rear providing access to all areas of the boat, including for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. There are fully accessible toilets, a fully equipped kitchen, and the main lounge has panoramic windows for superb views of the canal side environment and wild life.

Our volunteer skippers and crew are keen to engage with all the passengers to ensure they fully enjoy the experience, and everyone, regardless of age or disability, is encouraged to take a turn at steering and opening the electrically operated locks and bridges.

The funding will enable us to provide this experience for up to 40 elderly people in residential care, and contribute to improving their mental and physical health and wellbeing.

This project successfully funded on 16th June 2021